FAQs
Spinal Decompression
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Though each patient is different and no doctor can guarantee success, the clinical results of this type of therapy have been shown effective in 86% of patients treated. The common problems of many back conditions are damaged discs and poor spinal muscle control. Our treatment program addresses both of these core problems. The specially designed computerized spinal decompression table creates a controlled unloading of the vertebra to decrease disc pressure thus increasing blood and nutrient exchange. This exchange of fluids is something the damaged disc desperately needs to help it heal from the inside out. Muscle strength, control and endurance can all be improved with other facets of spinal decompression therapy that include specific controlled exercises.
Spinal Decompression Therapy treatments are one of the most gentle and comfortable therapies available. The treatments utilize FDA-cleared equipment with proven safety and efficacy and have never been reported to cause injury. Most patients report a mild sense of stretch on their back or hips, and often fall asleep during treatment sessions.
Although traction therapy has been around for thousands of years, De-compressive Traction is relatively new. Advances in equipment and procedures have dramatically improved effectiveness. Spinal decompression therapy is the most comprehensive program available, allowing the safe delivery of this previously hospital-based therapy in our office. Watch out for imitation decompression equipment. These machines, usually much cheaper to purchase, use ropes and pulley systems and are glorified traction units, not true decompression therapy. Continual improvements in the delivery system and regular updates in protocol keep spinal decompression in the forefront of non-invasive disc therapy. Each year, over 50,000 patients are treated with spinal decompression therapy and that number is growing.
It depends on the complexity of your condition and the extent of the rehabilitation needed, however we typically treat three to five times a week for six weeks. The treatment is administered over a reasonable time frame and your response is continually evaluated. Further treatments may be necessary or a reduced frequency may be recommended at that time. The rehabilitative phase may include additional spinal decompression treatments, with spinal adjustments to enhance the results.
Spinal Decompression therapy is a comprehensive program of the newest traction techniques with specific nutrition to “feed” the disc and targeted “core” stabilization exercises. In addition, we use other adjunctive treatments that have proven effectiveness in back care. It is this multifaceted approach that makes the overall treatment so effective. Additionally, the outer layer of the disc is known to be a predominant site of pain, so treating it as directly as possible makes sense. The blending of focused traction of the site, rehabilitation to the supporting structures, and overall strengthening of global musculature makes the treatment unique. Spinal decompression therapy affects the disc as directly as possible without surgery.
Along with the damage in the disc, we also need to treat the supporting spinal muscles. A complete program targeting the function of the stabilization muscles is a vital part of spinal decompression therapy. Infrared light therapy can offer additional benefits for inflammation and spasm reduction. Our hope is not only to help heal the disc, but to enhance muscle control and support of the low back. A gradual breakdown of the foundational support of your back is what got you here in the first place. It’s what puts undue stresses on the discs and leads to pain and loss of function. Exercise and adjunctive therapies will assist in rehabilitating these structures and preventing re-injury.
Although it is difficult to predict the future, our experience is that most patients do find long-term relief or effective management of their pain when they complete the entire program of treatments. Regular home exercise and periodic visits to our clinic will aid in maintaining your spinal health and reduce the probability of re-occurrence. As with any comprehensive rehabilitation program, your continued home care exercises and discretion in some daily activities is the key to long-term relief.